Manchester City ready to smash transfer record with £129m Real Madrid raid for keeper Casillas

Manchester City are prepared to make a £129million world-record-smashing bid for Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, according to the Spain star's agent.

Luis Garcia Abad said that the 27-year-old was first approached by the Abu Dhabi United Group during the Arab group's takeover of City three months ago with a £97m bid and offer of £10m salary per season.

At that time, Casillas indicated he would not leave Spain, but Abad claims the Barclays Premier League club have returned with the £129m improved offer and £11m per year.

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It is claimed that City hope the bid will be enough to land their man in January, though reports in Spain say that if the club are unsuccessful, they will return in the summer rather than turn their attention to other targets.

City have been linked with Juventus's Gigi Buffon but are now set for another Real raid after snatching Robinho from the under Chelsea's noses for a British record transfer fee £34million on September 1.

The Italy keeper's agent has suggested Buffon will be available for about £45m if City are prepared to wait until the end of the season to make their move.